Primary Care Perspectives: Episode 151 - Syphilis: Prevalence and Prevention

Snuffles, Hutchinson teeth and saber shins — what do these things all have in common? They are symptoms of syphilis. Also known as the “great mimicker,” syphilis can present itself in many ways.

Ericka Hayes, MD, attending physician in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, addresses the growing problem of congenital syphilis and the rising rates of transmission from mother to child; describes the common symptoms at birth or in early infancy as found in the newborn nursery and at early newborn checkups, including the classic syphilis rash and its variations; stresses the importance of universal STI screening for teens in prevention; and more.

This podcast is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not to be considered as medical advice for any particular patient. Clinicians must rely on their own informed clinical judgment in making recommendations to their patients. ©2023 by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, all rights reserved.